Uppingham School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School: Uppingham School
• Location: High Street West, Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9QE
• Type: Independent co-educational boarding and day school
• Founded: 1584
• Total pupils: Approximately 795
• Entry points: 11+, 13+ and Sixth Form
• 11+ places: Limited places available
• Registration deadline: May of Year 5 for 11+ entry
• Assessment: Pre-tests, interview and school reference

About Uppingham School

Uppingham School has been providing exceptional education since 1584, establishing itself as one of England's most respected independent schools. Located in the market town of Uppingham in Rutland, the school combines a rich heritage with modern educational excellence.

The school's distinctive character is built upon its house system, where pupils develop lasting friendships and strong pastoral support. With approximately 795 pupils, Uppingham maintains an intimate community feel whilst offering the resources and opportunities of a larger institution.

Uppingham's commitment to holistic education extends far beyond the classroom. The school is renowned for its exceptional music programme, with purpose-built facilities and a thriving creative arts department. Sports facilities are equally impressive, with extensive playing fields and modern sports centres supporting a wide range of activities.

The school's ethos centres on developing confident, articulate young people who are prepared for the challenges of the modern world. Pupils are encouraged to explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and contribute meaningfully to their community.

Fees and key dates for 2026/27

Uppingham School publishes day fees of £8,778 per term for 2026/27, taken from the school's own fees page in October 2026. Registration dates for the next 11+ round are published by the school's admissions office. Fees and dates change each year, so the school's website remains the reference for the current round.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Uppingham School's 11+ entry process is designed to identify pupils who will thrive in the school's dynamic environment. The assessment combines academic evaluation with personal interviews to ensure the best possible match between pupil and school.

Pre-Assessment Requirements

Candidates typically sit pre-tests during the autumn term of Year 6. These online assessments evaluate:

• Verbal Reasoning: Testing comprehension and language skills
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Assessing spatial awareness and logical thinking
• Mathematics: Covering core mathematical concepts appropriate to Year 6 level
• English: Evaluating reading comprehension and written expression

Interview Process

Successful candidates are invited for an interview with senior staff members. This 20-minute conversation allows the school to assess:

• The pupil's enthusiasm for learning
• Communication skills and confidence
• Interests and extracurricular pursuits
• Potential to contribute to school life

Extended Writing Assessment

Candidates complete a 30-minute writing task designed to evaluate creative thinking and written communication skills. This assessment helps the school understand each pupil's ability to express ideas clearly and imaginatively.

How to Apply

Registration Process

Step 1: Submit Registration
Complete the registration form with the required £200 fee, typically by May of Year 5 for 11+ entry.

Step 2: School Visit
Attend one of Uppingham's open days during the spring or autumn terms. These events provide families with comprehensive tours of the facilities and opportunities to meet staff and current pupils.

Step 3: Pre-Assessment
Candidates sit online pre-tests, usually administered at their current school during the autumn term of Year 6.

Step 4: Interview and Assessment
Invited candidates attend the school for their interview and complete the extended writing assessment.

Step 5: School Reference
Uppingham requests a detailed reference from the candidate's current headteacher, providing insight into academic progress and character.

Step 6: Offer Decision
Successful candidates receive conditional offers, typically confirmed following satisfactory performance in Year 6 examinations.

Important Deadlines

• Registration: May of Year 5
• Pre-tests: Autumn term of Year 6
• Interviews: Following successful pre-test performance
• Final confirmation: Summer term of Year 6

Preparing for the Uppingham School 11+ with Taylor Tuition

The Uppingham School 11+ rewards steady preparation over a year or so, with the last term given to timed practice and interview confidence. Having prepared pupils for entry to leading independent and grammar schools, with placements including Westminster, St Paul's, Wycombe Abbey and Eton, our tutors match the programme to the school's assessment format and to where the child is starting from.

Because the pool includes former heads of department, exam-board examiners and teachers from independent and boarding schools, and more than half of our tutors hold Qualified Teacher Status, families get a tutor who understands what the assessors are looking for. Every tutor who works with children holds an enhanced DBS check.

Families work with us online from anywhere in the UK or abroad, and in person in central London. Fees start from £50 per 50-minute session and depend on tutor level and subject, with no registration fee and a free initial consultation to talk through your child's current level and the timeline to the 11+. Families receive progress reports after sessions and have a dedicated point of contact, and we reply to enquiries within one working day with tutor recommendations.

Read more about our 11+ entrance exam tutors, or send an enquiry and we will come back with tutor recommendations.